Indian cattle are reportedly entering Bangladesh through the Maheshpur border in Jhenaidah after sunset. The animals are brought from India’s Nadia and South 24 Parganas districts and enter Bangladesh through points near Lorai Ghat and Harighata. They are later sold in livestock markets across the country, including in Cumilla and Chuadanga. Allegations suggest that some members of India’s Border Security Force (BSF) are involved in facilitating the crossings.

Investigations indicate that an illegal trade worth millions of taka has developed around eight border points used for smuggling. Local sources claim that cattle, drugs, and other contraband are moved through these routes under a system of monthly payments. Past incidents of violence have also been linked to these smuggling operations.

Lieutenant Colonel Rafiqul Alam, commander of the 58th Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) battalion in Maheshpur, said the force remains on high alert to prevent smuggling, counterfeit currency trafficking, and illegal crossings. He added that patrols and intelligence surveillance have been intensified and that awareness programs are being conducted among border residents.